A Brief Overview of Commedia del arte, and Some Character Types

Commedia del arte is an Italian word meaning 'comedy of professional artists'. It is a form of improvisational theatre. The commedia dell arte is an Italian comedy and is influenced by the traditions of Roman comedy. It had begun during the Renaissance 16th century and lasted into the 18th century, but it is still somewhat performed today. They were performed in travelling troupes, usually a company of 10 or more actors. Each actor developed a specific …

…is usually plays as the maid of one of the Old Men or the wife of Arlecchino. She is better dressed than the other servants for she is lady's maid. Colombia usually dons a mop cap and apron, with a 'folly' dress underneath. Her skirts fall just below the knee with several colours of material and the neckline of her bodice is often low and frilled. Although richly dressed, she always has a small apron.